Understanding and Treating Milia
Milia are small, white, benign cysts that commonly appear on the face, particularly around the eyes, cheeks, and nose. While harmless and often resolving without treatment, understanding their causes and proper care can help manage and prevent these tiny skin bumps effectively.
In this presentation, we'll explore what causes milia, how to recognize them, effective treatment options including Skinwise products, prevention strategies, and when to seek professional medical advice for persistent cases.
What Causes Milia?
Trapped Keratin
Milia form when keratin, a protein naturally found in skin, becomes trapped beneath the skin's surface, creating tiny white cysts. This trapping occurs when dead skin cells aren't properly exfoliated.
Skin Trauma
Burns, blisters, sun damage, or abrasive skincare treatments can lead to milia by disrupting the skin's surface and normal regeneration process, causing keratin to become trapped.
Heavy Skincare Products
Thick creams, oils, and occlusive products can clog pores, contributing to milia formation. This is especially common in newborns (baby milia) or adults with naturally oily skin.
Recognizing Milia
Small White Bumps
Tiny, hard, pearl-like bumps typically 1-2 mm in size. They appear white or yellowish due to the trapped keratin underneath the skin's surface.
No Pain or Itching
Unlike acne, milia are usually painless and non-inflammatory, with no surrounding redness or swelling. They don't typically cause discomfort.
Persistent Appearance
Milia may persist for weeks to months if not treated, especially in adults. In infants, they often clear up naturally within a few weeks.
Effective Treatment Options
Gentle Exfoliation
Use a mild exfoliating cleanser containing ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid to promote skin cell turnover and prevent keratin buildup without irritating the skin.
Apply Skinwise Products
Use Skinwise Exfoliating Gel with salicylic acid to unclog pores followed by Skinwise Hydrating Cream with hyaluronic acid to maintain skin moisture without causing additional clogging.
Avoid Popping
Never squeeze or pick at milia as this can cause scarring, infection, or skin damage. Milia are enclosed cysts, so popping rarely releases the contents and can worsen the condition.
Keep Skin Clean
Wash the face twice daily with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove excess oil and prevent further cyst formation without stripping the skin's natural barrier.
Skinwise Products for Milia Management
Preventing Milia Formation
Use Non-Comedogenic Products
Choose lightweight, oil-free moisturizers and sunscreens specifically formulated not to clog pores
Regular Cleansing
Cleanse skin morning and night to remove excess oil, dirt, makeup, and dead skin cells
Avoid Heavy Makeup
Limit use of thick foundations or creams, and remove makeup thoroughly each night
Sun Protection
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to prevent skin damage that can contribute to milia
When to Seek Medical Advice
Persistent Milia
If milia do not resolve after a few months of home care, it's time to consult a dermatologist for professional evaluation and treatment options.
Signs of Infection
Seek immediate medical help if milia become red, swollen, painful, or warm to the touch, as these are indicators of possible infection that requires treatment.
Professional Removal
A dermatologist may recommend procedures like extraction with a sterile needle (lancing), cryotherapy, dermabrasion, or chemical peels for stubborn milia.
Summary: Managing Milia Effectively
Long-Term Skin Health
Consistent care leads to clear, healthy skin
Professional Help When Needed
Consult experts for persistent or concerning cases
Prevention Strategies
Non-comedogenic products, regular cleansing, sun protection
Effective Home Treatment
Gentle exfoliation, appropriate products, avoiding irritation
Accurate Identification
Recognize small, white, painless bumps as milia